Rode this line in the early 60's. Day train from Mexico City still had an open observation car on it. At one point the steward came back on the platform and operated the hand brake as we decended down the hill. About a dozen streetcars from the Veracruz rolling museum system were lined up outside the station.

Returned several days later on the overnight train. Fare for two was about $4.50 in a Pullman. Yes, a "Pullman" since the Pullman Company still operated much of the sleeping car service on the National of Mexico. Got a cab ride in one of the electric helpers. Truly a spectacular line.

Mexico in those days still had narrow gauge steam trains on a number of lines. The NdeM was operating Hudsons and 4-8-4's while ex-NYC observation cars could still be found on some trains. The overnight train between Mexico City and Guadalajara ran in two sections all Pullman and a round end observation car. Round trip from Nogales to Mexico City was $52 in a Pullman.

Quite a difference from the almost complete lack of any passenger service in the country today.